Want to Book a River Cruise? Consider These Pros and Cons

River Seine, Paris, France
River Seine, Paris, France. Photo by J Shim on Unsplash

River cruises have become increasingly popular in recent years, and you might have found yourself tempted to book one. But before taking that step, you should consider these pros and cons.

Pro: They Are a Great Way to Explore and See More

River cruises are usually organized in a way that the passengers visit a new port every day. This provides an opportunity to explore more destinations in a short period. Additionally, there will be no lack of amazing sights when you’re sailing.

Con: They Are Expensive

River cruises are usually quite expensive. They are a lot pricier compared to ocean cruises and the cost can often go beyond what you would spend for a vacation on land.

Pro: They Are All-Inclusive

Most river cruises are all-inclusive. This means you don’t need to worry about different packages or additional bills. They provide accommodation, meals, and drinks for as long as you are on board.

Con: They Lack Entertainment

Don’t expect river cruises to keep you entertained with elaborate shows or have a movie theater. Instead, the best you can hope is a small band singing covers until midnight.

Pro: They Feel More Personal

River cruise boats are much smaller compared to ocean cruisers, often carrying no more than 200 passengers. This makes them feel more personal and allows you to get to know your fellow cruisers and make new friends.

Con: They Can Feel Claustrophobic

On the other hand, the size of a river cruise boat can be a con as well. The cabins are often small and are the only place where you can get some privacy, making them feel claustrophobic.